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What do you need to know about thyroid problems in cats?

What do you need to know about thyroid problems in cats?

What You Ought to Know About Thyroid Problems in Cats. The tumors, in turn, stimulate the glands to produce increased thyroid hormone. There are no known genetic tendencies for hyperthyroidism. According to Clinical Endocrinology of Dogs and Cats, all felines are possible candidates for getting the condition, regardless of breed or gender.

How old do cats have to be to develop hyperthyroidism?

While hyperthyroidism can develop in cats as young as 4, it is more common in older cats, especially those around 12 or 13. Feline thyroid problems are believed to stem from environmental, nutritional and immunological factors, all of which play a role in developing tumors.

Is it fatal for a cat to have hyperthyroidism?

Symptoms appear slowly, so you may not notice a problem at first but left untreated over a long period, hyperthyroidism can be fatal. Hyperthyroidism is most common in middle aged to older cats. Hyperthyroidism is over-activity in the thyroid glands.

Which is the second most common treatment for hyperthyroidism in cats?

Surgery is the second most common treatment for feline hyperthyroidism and involves removing the thyroid gland. There are two thyroid glands, one located each side of the windpipe in the neck.

What causes thyroid issues in older cats?

Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid glands) is a very common disorder of older cats. It is caused by an increase in production of thyroid hormones from the thyroid glands, which are situated in the neck.

What not to feed cats with hyperthyroidism?

But for now, do not feed your cats canned or dry, fish-flavored cat foods. If you feed your cats fish, avoid fish like salmon and whitefish that are known to concentrate this chemical. Not all cats that develop hyperthyroidism eat fish products. The EPA veterinarians who conducted the study pointed out…

What are the effects of untreated thyroid disease in cats?

If hyperthyroidism in cats is left untreated, it can cause serious problems and even be fatal. For instance, thyroid hormones cause the heart to beat faster and contract more strongly. Over time, this can impair the normal functioning of the heart and trigger cardiac arrest.

Does hyperthyroidism in cats lead to death?

Hyperthyroidism can be extremely dangerous in cats if left untreated. When the condition isn’t managed, it can lead to kidney failure, liver failure, heart disease and eventually death.